Thank you for visiting!
EXHIBITS
There are many historical stories told in our
displays such as the history of physicians and hospitals in
Bandon.
Both the river and the ocean were critical in
moving goods to and from Bandon. Artifacts from shipwrecks to
ferry boats are on display.
Cranberries grow wild near Bandon and cranberry farming
has always been a important means of livelihood. See some of the
equipment used at harvest time.
The Coquille Native American tribe had a village
near the shore of the river in the area of 1st Street SW. They
were here long before the first white settlers arrived.
Bandon has its share of veterans and many have
donated items from their service. These and other artifacts are
on display.
There are hundreds of examples of everyday
articles from daily life in early Bandon on display. Here are a
few of the items you might find in your pantry.
For many years the lumber industry was the principle
source of work in the area and thus shaped the nature and
culture of the community. Mills, logging, shipping, and hauling
were all important to Bandon.
A new display showing images of Bandon in the past and present can now be seen. Our student employee Ally Richert developed the new exhibit as part of her summer internship with the museum. Stop by the Museum and take a look!
A new exhibit on the taverns found in the Bandon area has been established.
The Museum has rebuilt the exhibit on the wreck of the steamer "Fifield". Here's the reason why... “The twin screw steam schooner Fifield was wrecked off the Bandon bar at the mouth of the Coquille River at 7:20 this morning, the odd day of the leap year, February 29,” reported The Bandon Recorder for February 29, 1916. This year of 2016 marks the 100th anniversary, or 25th anniversary, to those literal about counting leap days, of the wreck of the Fifield. The Bandon Historical Society Museum is observing the 100-year anniversary with a special exhibit.
Before television and the internet the primary means of learning the latest news was either newspaper or radio. In the late 1920's through the '50s, radio developed from a science project to a reliable means of communication and entertainment. The museum has several examples of early radios including a 1928 RCA Radiola 60 and a 1931 Jackson Bell. Also seen in the photo is an early RCA Victrola record player. The Radiola has recently been restored and can often be heard playing radio programs from the past. Restoration Story
